The Complete Training Course for Altar Guilds - by B Don Taylor (Paperback)

About the Book

This course offers the best education available to altar guild members and is also extremely informative for all laity. This comprehensive training course presents "modules" of easy-to-digest information, which include everything any member would need to know about what are humorously termed the "props", the "stage", the "holy hardware", the "costumes", and other aspects of the Passion Play we all attend on Sunday.

Book Synopsis

An all-inclusive, illustrated guidebook for the proper administration of an Episcopalian altar service.

This comprehensive, self-paced training manual presents all the information necessary for altar guild members to perform their tasks knowledgeably and well, describing in detail the behind-the-scenes preparations for the celebration of the Eucharist. In clear and easy-to-understand terms, the author explains the symbolism and use of liturgical spaces, sanctuary furniture, vessels, linens, vestments, crosses, candles, and many other features of the altar. Specific instructions on how to launder and iron the corporal, purificator, pall, and other linens are also included.

Fully illustrated, the manual offers a thorough explanation of the Christian year, the use of appropriate liturgical colors, and the particular functions required before and after high and low masses, baptism, confirmations, weddings, funerals, and other types of services.

Useful aids such as flow charts, checklists, self-test exercises, and a glossary of terms are incorporated to help altar guild members understand and properly use the information presented.

Review Quotes

"...a clear and logically-paced guide to learning about and preparing the church--its space and furnishings--for worship...I thoroughly enjoyed this book, learned a great deal, and will certainly recommend it to others."
--Travis Du Priest, The Living Church

"Altar guild members are shown how to become "stage managers" for the Passion play that Episcopalians attend and participate in weekly...covers every detail of what [Taylor] humorously terms the "props," the "stage," the "holy hardware," the "costumes," and more. Following a brief history of altar guilds, the guide explains physical aspects of the Eucharist, uses and care for vestments, vessels, and linens, along with a thorough review of the seasons of the Christian year."
--Cokesbury Episcopal Resource Catalog

"Mr. Taylor has produced a comprehensive, well-organized, and practical altar guild manual...There are numerous illustrations, checklists, and diagrams to enliven the text and provide a 'show and tell' for both new and experienced guild members...Taylor has made his subject seem totally approachable."
--Peggy Chittum, Journal of Women's Ministries

"It is written in a bright and breezy style and is accompanied by a multitude of clear line drawings which illustrate the text. Both the printing and the layout are exceptionally easy to read and the book includes a comprehensive index at the beginning and a glossary at the back which are valuable for quick reference...In all, a wealth of information, attractively packaged...a valuable addition to any parish reference library."
--Carol Fenley, ECW Communique